Richie Porte (Sky) carried off the 2013 Paris-Nice with a masterful display of up-hill time-trialling. Porte became the first Austrailan to win the 'race to the sun', though ironically it was in mist and drizzle he produced his defining effort to cross the line on the Col d'Eze in 19'16", 23 seconds faster than his nearest rival, Andrew Talansky (Garmin Sharp). Nairo Quintana (Movistar), finished third, four seconds slower.

While Porte extended his lead to 55" with his ride, others saw themeselves tumble down the classification. Sylvain Chavanel lost his spot on the podium with an off-colour ride that placed him nineth, 1'05" down. Lieuwe Westra likewise imploded slipping from fourth to eighth.

A big winner was Jean-Christophe Peraud (AG2R) who leapt onto the podium with a ride that made him the only other rider to produce a sub-20' time on the hill.

Speaking after the ride Porte said,

"I just never thought or believed that I could win Paris-Nice. For me personally I’ve never had a nice experience at this race so it’s a massive monkey off the back to come here and win it. I woke up this morning and I knew that I had good legs. After the armchair ride that I got from the team yesterday – as well as on stage five and for the entire week – I knew I’d be in good shape. The guys were just incredible this race. I don’t feel like I’m ready to lead at a Grand Tour yet. My goal is to go to the Tour and support Chris and Brad. Do that and maybe next year I could potentially lead Team Sky at the Giro.”